Justification:
The species is endemic to Lake Vistonis (a coastal lagoon) drainage. Spawning sites have been lost due to the damming of the tributaries (over 10 years ago) for irrigation, however the species can still spawn below the dams (area of occupancy of the remaining spawning sites is less than 10 km²). Due to the damming less freshwater is entering the lagoon causing the expansion of areas of high salinity. Pollution is also a potential threat as the catchment is surrounded by intensive agriculture. Based on the increasing salinity of the lagoon the species is only found in one location.

Commercial fishing and loss of spawning grounds due to damming of rivers. Increased salinity of the lagoon, due to the blocking of tributaries for irrigation, is also threatening the species. Pollution may also be a threat as there is intensive agriculture which surrounds the catchment and lagoon.